CARSON, Calif. — In a thrilling conclusion at Dignity Health Sports Park on Saturday night, Orlando City emerged victorious over the Los Angeles Galaxy, clinching a 2-1 win. The match was decided in the final minutes of regulation when Luis Muriel scored off a brilliantly executed free kick. This came shortly after Martín Ojeda had leveled the playing field with a penalty kick, leaving the Galaxy still searching for their first win after six matches this season.
The Galaxy, currently standing at 0-4-2, initially seized the advantage in the 14th minute when Christian Ramírez found the back of the net. Assisted by second-year defender Miki Yamane and Edwin Cerrillo, this marked Ramirez’s third goal for the team in his debut season, adding to his career tally of 54 goals in 166 appearances. Yamane’s assist counted as his second this season, while Cerrillo registered his first assist of the year.
Orlando City’s comeback began in the 76th minute with Ojeda’s crucial penalty kick conversion, tying the match. This marked Ojeda’s fourth goal of the season, capitalizing after Eduard Atuesta was fouled by Yamane. Ojeda, who had recorded 10 goals in 68 appearances over two prior seasons, continued to impress with his decisive play.
Muriel delivered the winning blow in the 90th minute with his third goal of the season, following a five-goal tally in 33 appearances last year. This victory enhances Orlando City’s road record against the Galaxy to 2-2-0 and advances their series lead to 5-3-0.
While Orlando City’s goalkeeper Pedro Gallese recorded one save, his counterpart John McCarthy for the Galaxy also made a single save, yet neither managed second-half saves. Orlando, entering the match with a league-leading 13 goals, showcased an impressive offensive run, amassing 57 goals in their last 23 regular-season appearances.
Looking ahead, Orlando City is set to face the Philadelphia Union on Saturday, while the Galaxy will compete against Real Salt Lake on the same day.